Apple is Trademarking The Term ‘Startup’ in Malaysia. What's the Story?

In a move that will certainly raise many eyebrows, Apple Inc has filed applications with the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO) to trademark the term ‘startup’ in the country.

digitalnewsasia.com

The technology giant has applied to hold the trademark of the word ‘startup’ under various computing, mobile and educational classes.

The application seeks to use the trademark in relation to retail store services; the maintenance, installation and repair of computer hardware and other devices; educational services, including classes, workshops and seminars, and the design and development of computer hardware and software.

wired.co.uk

Meanwhile StartupSmart has labelled Apple an "intellectual property bully", describing the move as frivolous.

itwire.com

In Singapore, the mark is still pending approval despite being registered more than two years ago, which suggests that the registration has faced complications.

digitalnewsasia.com

It is unclear if the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore received any objections, since any party can oppose the trademark two months after it was filed.

itwire.com

There is lots of speculation about why Apple might be trying to trademark a word like "Startup", with some suggesting the company could be trying to disintermediate mobile operators and sell contracts to customers directly.

wired.co.uk

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